AS Roma centre-back Mehdi Benatia could well be on his way to the Premier League, but now looks closer to joining Manchester United than Chelsea, reports the Sunday Express.
Following the Red Devils’ shock opening day defeat to Swansea City on Saturday, new manager Louis van Gaal is desperately on the search for recruitment at the back.
The 2-1 loss to the Swans saw Phil Jones, Chris Smalling and youngster Tyler Blackett make up a three-man central defence and the trio were far from impressive.
It’s understood that Roma sporting director Walter Sabatini has flown to England to hold talks with the Blues, but it’s now believed he also met with United.
Van Gaal is said to have tabled a £24m offer for Benatia, although his club are holding out for closer to £30m as it becomes more likely the 27-year-old will be leaving Serie A.
The defender fell out with the side this summer after he has refused a new contract to make him equal to the top earners at the Stadio Olimpico.
Manchester City were thought to be the first English side to show interest, but they have since landed Eliaquim Mangala from FC Porto instead.
The West Londoners are also eyeing up Benatia as a long-term replacement for captain John Terry, but as is stands the Red Devils are certainly the team most in need of support at the back.
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